"We are confident that our customer focused strategy is driving performance and based on current trading we expect to be towards the top end of our roadmap guidance of 7-10% underlying operating profit growth for the 2013 financial year."

It comes as rival firm Thomas Cook (Xetra: A0MR3W - news) said its turnaround plan was "firmly on track".

The world's oldest travel group, which has been struggling since the start of the downturn, also reported improving sales in the UK.

It said its pre-tax loss in the three months to the end of 2012 was £151.7m - more than 15% down on the loss reported in the same period in the year before.

Over the last two years, Thomas Cook has issued a string of profit warnings and been forced to renegotiate its bank loans.

But the company's fortunes have been improving since its new chief executive took over in May.

Industry outsider Harriet Green oversaw a string of disposals to slash its debt, including the sale of its Indian business and several Spanish hotels.

Winter and summer bookings were in-line with expectations, the 172-year-old company said.

Ms Green added: "We have seen stronger operating performances in our major markets - the UK, Germany and the Nordics.

"I am particularly pleased with the improved performance in the UK as the benefits of the turnaround plan are reflected in its operating results.

"We have further strengthened our leadership team and the pace at which we are driving change gives me confidence that together we will achieve our near term objectives and much more."